Charming but predictable, this direct-to-video sequel of the Disney remake of "Angels in the Outfield" (itself an MGM film from the 1950's) is a mild family comedy distraction, the type of thing that Disney did with a punting donkey back in the 1970's ("Gus"), yet perhaps a bit more schmaltzy because it focuses on pathos rather than punchlines or slapstick. The story focuses on high school football player Matthew Lawrence, the only hope of his losing football team oh, unfortunately quitting because he's grieving over the death of his father.
Younger brother David Gallagher has the gift of seeing angel Christopher Lloyd, returning from the previous film, reminding me of Sid Caesar from "Grease". Mom Lynda Boyd rolls her eyes at Gallagher's fantasy and somehow he ends up in therapy where the wacky Lloyd interferes, seemingly making a pass at Boyd after taking over his therapist's body. It's obvious where this is going, just a matter of time before Lawrence rejoins the team and the dead dad (played by Jack Coleman of "Dynasty") shows up.
Yes, the big heart of this film is indeed touching, but it gets a little sentimental after a while, mainly stolen anytime that Lloyd is on screen or young Sean Amsing as the enthusiastic exchange student. The writing for him is very cliched, especially when he doesn't know where a jockstrap goes or puts his football uniform trousers on backwards. But he gives a sweet, heartfelt performance, and every time he's on screen, he steals the scene. Veteran actor Paul Dooley plays the coach, perplexed by things that he can't see that appear rather strange to him. Normally I find juvenile comedies like this cloying (there is one thing with Gallagher crying that really is), but for the most part, this is a lot of fun.
Younger brother David Gallagher has the gift of seeing angel Christopher Lloyd, returning from the previous film, reminding me of Sid Caesar from "Grease". Mom Lynda Boyd rolls her eyes at Gallagher's fantasy and somehow he ends up in therapy where the wacky Lloyd interferes, seemingly making a pass at Boyd after taking over his therapist's body. It's obvious where this is going, just a matter of time before Lawrence rejoins the team and the dead dad (played by Jack Coleman of "Dynasty") shows up.
Yes, the big heart of this film is indeed touching, but it gets a little sentimental after a while, mainly stolen anytime that Lloyd is on screen or young Sean Amsing as the enthusiastic exchange student. The writing for him is very cliched, especially when he doesn't know where a jockstrap goes or puts his football uniform trousers on backwards. But he gives a sweet, heartfelt performance, and every time he's on screen, he steals the scene. Veteran actor Paul Dooley plays the coach, perplexed by things that he can't see that appear rather strange to him. Normally I find juvenile comedies like this cloying (there is one thing with Gallagher crying that really is), but for the most part, this is a lot of fun.